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Description:
Solanum Americanum Subsp. Americanum, also known as American black nightshade, is a small, herbaceous plant that belongs to the Solanaceae family. This plant is native to the Americas and is commonly found in fields, waste grounds, and along roadsides. It is an annual plant that grows up to 3 feet in height and 2 feet in width.
Taxonomic Information:
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Solanum |
Appearance:
American black nightshade has green, ovate leaves that are 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. Its stems are green and slightly hairy, and its flowers are small and white or pale violet. The plant produces small, round berries that are initially green but turn black when ripe. Each berry contains 60-100 seeds.
Care Guide:
American black nightshade is a hardy plant that is easy to grow. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. This plant does not require regular fertilization, but adding compost or other organic matter to the soil can improve its growth. It is drought tolerant and can survive in hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases:
American black nightshade is susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including spider mites, aphids, whiteflies, and powdery mildew. To prevent these pests and diseases, keep the plant well-watered and remove any infected leaves or fruits as soon as they are noticed. In severe cases, chemical insecticides or fungicides may be necessary.
Habitat:
American black nightshade is commonly found in fields, waste grounds, and along roadsides in the Americas. It can also grow in disturbed areas, including gardens and agricultural fields. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions, including full sun exposure and drought.
Question and Answer:
Q: Can American black nightshade be grown in containers?
A: Yes, American black nightshade can be grown in containers as long as they are at least 12 inches in diameter and have good drainage.
Q: Are the berries of American black nightshade edible?
A: The berries of American black nightshade are toxic if consumed in large quantities and should not be eaten.
Q: Does American black nightshade attract pollinators?
A: Yes, American black nightshade attracts bees and other pollinators.
Q: Is American black nightshade a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, American black nightshade has been used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments, including asthma, coughs, and skin conditions.
Related Plants:
- Solanum nigrum (Black nightshade)
- Solanum lycopersicum (Tomato)
- Solanum tuberosum (Potato)
References:
- USDA Plants Database. Solanum americanum Mill. subsp. americanum. Available at: https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SOAMA
- Missouri Botanical Garden. Solanum americanum. Available at: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=253000&isprofile=0&
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. American Black Nightshade. Available at: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fw039
